Blake Morrison's On Memoir: A Master's Guide to Life Writing
Blake Morrison, a renowned poet, critic, and literary editor, opens his comprehensive exploration of life writing with a profound statement: "I've had a life and I've also had a life as a life writer." This sets the stage for his latest work, On Memoir: An A-Z of Life Writing, which delves into the complexities of autobiography, a genre that continues to expand and captivate readers worldwide. The book challenges readers to ponder fundamental questions: What truly constitutes a life, and how can one effectively write about it from within its own confines?
From Poetry to Personal Narratives
Before achieving fame with his bestselling memoir And When Did You Last See Your Father? in 1993, Morrison had already established himself in the literary world. His early works, such as The Ballad of the Yorkshire Ripper, showcased his interest in delving into the inner lives of others, even those involved in harrowing events like serial killings. This poem is featured in On Memoir as an example of using form to address collective trauma, alongside his exploration of the James Bulger case in As If. Morrison emphasizes that life writing often extends beyond one's own experiences, intertwining with broader societal issues.
An A-Z Framework with Depth
Structured as an alphabetically ordered guide, On Memoir moves from topics like Flashbacks and Food to Persona and Plagiarism, offering a deceptively simple format that belies its deep inquiries. Drawing from his years teaching at Goldsmiths, University of London, Morrison provides practical advice for aspiring memoirists, such as avoiding repetitive name usage and considering self-publishing options. The book also serves as an extensive reading list, highlighting works from Olaudah Equiano's 1789 autobiography to contemporary memoirs like Catherine Taylor's The Stirrings, which connects personal growth to public crimes.
The Central Question of Truth
Throughout the entries, Morrison grapples with the elusive nature of truth in memoir writing. Memory is portrayed as a slippery entity, and the modern emphasis on "speaking one's truth" raises questions about objectivity and multiple perspectives. When accounts clash, situations can become messy, prompting writers to balance honesty with sensitivity. Morrison advises against fabrication, as seen in cases like Binjamin Wilkomirski's false Holocaust narratives, but also cautions against self-censorship to appear likable or avoid discomfort.
Personal Reflections and Reader Engagement
One of the book's most engaging aspects is how it encourages readers to add their own entries to the A-Z framework. Between discussions on Likability and Loss, Morrison invites contemplation on themes like Loneliness, exploring why people write and read memoirs. This process fosters a sense of connection, making readers feel "seen" through shared human experiences. Ultimately, On Memoir is not just a guide but a catalyst for deeper reflection on the art of storytelling.
On Memoir: An A-Z of Life Writing by Blake Morrison is published by Borough Press, offering a valuable resource for anyone interested in the craft of autobiography.
